Religious Studies

The principal aim of Religious Studies at Princess Helena College is for the girls to be well informed, articulate and thoughtful about the major world religions as represented in Great Britain. We educate girls in religious and philosophical views, so that they can take their place in the world confidently, secure in their knowledge of this living phenomena.

During their first three years girls will be able to acquire and develop knowledge of the six principal faiths Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. There will be a particular emphasis on Christianity, as the main religious tradition in this country.

In lessons the girls are encouraged to develop an understanding and appreciation of the influence of beliefs, values and traditions on individual, communities, societies and cultures. The girls also develop the ability to make informed judgement about religious and moral issues with reference to the teaching of the principal religions.

In conjunction with this academic approach to religion the girls are also given time and encouraged to think about their own spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

GCSE and A level, ‘Philosophy and Ethics' are offered within the Religious Studies Department. These options are growing in popularity with the girls as their relevance to modern living is becoming ever more pertinent.

Teaching and learning methods within the department are a balance of traditional and modern. Teaching is regularly monitored within the department and the faculty to generate good solid learning within the classroom and to help cater for the needs of all girls.

The Department runs numerous trips to various places of religious interest.

Last year girls visited:

• The Hindu Bhaktivedante Manor in Hertfordshire
• Amaravati Buddhist Monastery
• Religion in ‘Art and Architecture' -  A tour of National Gallery and Westminster Cathedral.

Older girls attended Sixth form Philosophy and Ethics conferences and participated in Holocaust Memorial day events

The Department ran its first major overseas trip to India in Autumn 2010.